My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Lexus RC Repair in Raleigh

Expert Maintenance & Repairs for Lexus’s Luxury Sports Coupe

Since its introduction in 2014, the Lexus RC has offered drivers a rare combination of luxury, style, and performance in a premium sports coupe. Designed to compete with models like the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5, the RC blends Lexus reliability with aggressive styling, powerful V6 and V8 engine options, and advanced technology. Variants such as the RC 200t/300, RC 350, and high-performance RC F cater to different driving styles, from daily commuting to track-ready thrills.

At Creech Import Repair in Raleigh, we provide expert service for all Lexus RC models. Whether you own an early turbocharged RC 200t, a refined RC 350, or a high-output RC F, our ASE-certified technicians understand the unique needs of these performance coupes. From routine maintenance to specialized repairs, we’ll keep your RC running strong and performing at its best.

Why Raleigh Lexus RC Owners Choose Creech Import Repair

Performance Expertise – Experience servicing high-output engines, including V6 and V8 RC models.
Luxury Electronics & Safety Systems – Skilled with infotainment, driver-assist technology, and sensor calibration.
OEM & Premium Parts – Lexus/Toyota OEM or premium-grade components used to preserve performance and reliability.
Trusted Raleigh Shop – ASE-certified, family-owned, and focused on honest, transparent repairs.

Common Lexus RC Problems by Model & Generation

2015–2017 Lexus RC 200t / RC 300

Turbo Lag & Hesitation – The 2.0L turbo engine (RC 200t) is prone to hesitation under load.
Fix: ECU updates, intake cleaning, and turbo system service.
Carbon Build-Up (Direct Injection) – Causes rough idle and loss of power.
Fix: Walnut blasting or intake system cleaning.
Infotainment Freezing – Remote Touch system sometimes lags or crashes.
Fix: Software updates or replacement of infotainment module.

2015–Present Lexus RC 350

Water Pump Leaks – The 3.5L V6 commonly develops coolant leaks around the water pump.
Fix: Replace water pump and inspect cooling system.
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets) – Particularly on higher-mileage models.
Fix: Replace valve cover gaskets and inspect cam seals.
Suspension Wear – Strut and sway bar link failures leading to clunking noises.
Fix: Replace suspension components and align wheels.

2015–Present Lexus RC F (Performance Model)

Brake Wear – High-performance Brembo systems wear pads and rotors quickly.
Fix: Replace with OEM or performance-grade parts.
Carbon Build-Up on 5.0L V8 – Leads to reduced throttle response.
Fix: Intake cleaning and regular fuel system maintenance.
Transmission Hesitation – Some owners report rough downshifts on the 8-speed automatic.
Fix: Transmission fluid service or ECU reprogramming.

Issues Seen Across All Lexus RC Models

Check Engine Lights (O2 Sensors, EVAP System) – Frequent as vehicles age.
Battery Drain – Due to electronics-heavy cabins, especially if accessories are left on.
A/C System Malfunctions – Weak airflow or noisy compressors.
Excessive Tire Wear – Sport suspension models tend to wear tires faster.
Navigation & Electronics Glitches – Freezing, lag, or poor Bluetooth connectivity.

Services We Offer for Lexus RC Owners

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Engine & Driveability

Spark plug and ignition coil replacement
Valve cover gasket repair
Fuel injector cleaning
Idle air control and VVT solenoid service
Engine diagnostics and check engine light analysis
Oil leak repair

❄️

Heating & Cooling

A/C system inspection and recharging
Compressor and condenser replacement
Radiator and water pump repair
Cabin filter changes
Blower motor diagnostics

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Suspension & Braking

Brake pad and rotor replacement
Brake fluid flush
Suspension inspections and strut/shock replacement
Control arm and sway bar link repair
ABS light diagnosis and wheel speed sensor service

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Electrical & Interior

Battery testing and alternator diagnostics
TPMS sensor replacement and calibration
Window and door lock actuator service
Infotainment screen troubleshooting
Sensor recalibration for safety systems

Recommended Maintenance for Lexus RC

Service	Interval	Benefit
Oil & Filter Change	5,000–7,500 miles	Protects engine performance
Tire Rotation & Balance	7,500 miles	Prevents uneven tire wear
Brake System Inspection	10,000 miles	Maintains safety
Coolant Flush	60,000 miles	Prevents overheating
Spark Plug Replacement	120,000 miles (iridium)	Preserves fuel efficiency
Transmission Fluid (Auto)	60,000 miles	Improves shifting
Differential Service (RC F)	30,000–50,000 miles	Protects performance drivetrain

Signs Your Lexus RC Needs Service

Check Engine Light or ECU Warnings – A lit check engine light can point to issues ranging from minor (like a loose gas cap) to serious (ignition coil failure, turbocharger issues, or emissions system malfunctions). Ignoring this light could lead to engine misfires or costly catalytic converter damage on RC F and RC 350 models.
Jerky Acceleration, Turbo Lag, or Hesitation When Shifting – Common on RC 200t/300 turbo models. This may be due to carbon build-up, faulty sensors, or transmission software issues. On V6 and V8 models, rough shifting can be related to transmission fluid wear or ECU calibration problems.
Coolant Leaks or Overheating (Especially RC 350) – The 3.5L V6 in RC 350 models is prone to water pump leaks, leading to coolant loss and overheating. Overheating can cause serious damage, so it should be treated urgently to avoid head gasket failure or complete engine damage.
Brake Squealing, Grinding, or Reduced Stopping Power – Performance braking systems, especially on RC F models with Brembo brakes, wear faster. Squealing may indicate worn pads, while grinding signals metal-on-metal contact that requires immediate attention.
Clunking or Rattling When Driving Over Bumps – Often caused by suspension wear, such as worn struts, sway bar links, or bushings. Unaddressed, it can compromise handling, comfort, and tire life, especially on performance-tuned RC models.
Infotainment Freezing or Navigation Malfunctions – The Remote Touch infotainment system often lags or freezes. This can impact audio, navigation, and driver-assist displays. Software updates help, but failing modules may need replacement.
Uneven Tire Wear or Vibration at Highway Speeds – Aggressive suspension setups and staggered tire configurations often lead to premature wear. Vibration may indicate unbalanced wheels, bent rims, or worn bearings.
Unusual Engine Noises – Knocking, ticking, or whines could be due to timing chain tensioners, accessory pulleys, or turbo components. These noises should be checked immediately to avoid more damage.
Electrical Quirks – Power window failures, dimming lights, or non-responsive seat controls often indicate failing switches, fuses, or alternators, common in high-mileage RC models.
Declining Fuel Economy – A sudden drop in MPG could point to dirty fuel injectors, worn spark plugs, or issues with oxygen sensors and the EVAP system. Turbo models may also lose efficiency from boost leaks or carbon deposits.

Book Your Lexus RC Repair in Raleigh

Whether you drive the stylish RC 300, the reliable RC 350, or the performance-focused RC F, Creech Import Repair has the expertise to keep your coupe running strong. From routine maintenance to high-performance care, our technicians are here to protect your investment and keep you enjoying the road.

📍 Visit Us: Creech Import Repair – Raleigh, NC
📞 Call: (919) [872-1999]
🌐 Book Online: Schedule an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions – Lexus RC

Yes. With regular maintenance, RC models are very reliable compared to European competitors, often exceeding 200,000 miles.

Turbo hesitation (RC 200t/300), water pump leaks (RC 350), brake wear (RC F), infotainment glitches, and suspension rattles are the most reported issues.

Oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles, brake inspections every 10,000 miles, and transmission service every 60,000 miles are recommended.

Yes, we service RC F Brembo braking systems, 5.0L V8 engines, and performance drivetrains, including differential fluid service.

This is often caused by worn struts, sway bar links, or bushings. We can diagnose and repair suspension issues to restore handling.

Absolutely. We provide software updates, module replacements, and troubleshooting for Lexus multimedia systems and driver-assist features.

Contact us today

For an estimate with the most trusted auto repair shop in Wake County, Creech Import Repair!

Shop Location

1818 St. Albans Dr #106
Raleigh, NC 27609

Monday - Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Call us 919-872-1999

Our Commitment to You

At Creech Import Repair, our philosophy is simple: Treat customers with kindness, respect, and honesty, and success will follow. Contact us for any and all of your automotive repair needs.

Please Note

Online bookings are not considered confirmed appointments until verified by a member of our Service Team.
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Customer Feedback

Jason M., Raleigh

"Brought my RC 350 in for a coolant leak. Creech Import Repair replaced the water pump quickly and the car runs perfectly again."

Amanda R., Cary

"My RC F needed brake service and the team at Creech knew exactly how to handle the performance Brembo system. Great service!"

Lexus RC Repair in Raleigh, NC